Freaked

A 1993 American black comedy film directed by Tom Stern and Alex Winter, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Tim Burns. Alex Winter stars in the lead role. The film retains the surreal humor characteristic of their previous MTV sketch show, "The Idiot Box." The story follows former child star Ricky Coogin (Alex Winter), who accepts an offer from the "Everything But Shoes" corporation to endorse the controversial fertilizer "Zygrot 24." Along with his friend Ernie (Michael Stoyanov), he travels to the South American town of Santa Flan. En route, they meet environmental activist Julie (Megan Ward), who joins their journey. Upon arriving in Santa Flan, they visit a freak show run by the eccentric Elijah C. Skuggs (Randy Quaid). Skuggs uses "Zygrot 24" to mutate people into freaks, transforming Ricky, Ernie, and Julie into part of his collection. Other "exhibits" include Mr. T (as the Bearded Lady), Bobcat Goldthwait (as a man with a sock puppet for a head), and others. The protagonists band together to confront Skuggs and find a way to restore their human forms. The film is known for its absurd humor, satire of show business, and use of unconventional special effects.